Our Photos

The creation of a pattern in the driveway is often overlooked by designers despite the fact the driveway can be the largest part of the front yard. The pattern in this design, takes advantage of the large space.

Every design detail is used here fully. The bench mimics the angle provided by the tile floor. Lighting is present at the step beside the sidewalk.

The color of the existing rock facade is unattractive in this residence. The tile used in this entrance accentuates the best colors of the rock facade.

This arbor is provided by a kit and avoids expensive design and city review.

Using the same style and color brick found on the residence makes this new entrance appear custom. The Client requested a design that would make their home look like one in Palo Alto. I believe this was achieved!

Having amenities close to the residence assures maximum use. This spa is close to the Master Bedroom. To make the spa and residence close the same elevation is provided. An additional benefit of a waterfall is now available, from the spa to the pool.

Providing a fountain in this spacious yard provides “white noise” beside a busy residential street. Guests can linger beside the fountain on their exit by sitting on the bench.

Matching the color of the residence was a natural decision here. Providing spaces between the concrete pads allowed mint to grow. Mint, if stepped on, brings the scent of mint into the home.

This sunken space was necessary to save the heritage oak seen in the picture. Oak trees, with their trunks covered in soil, are vulnerable to disease. This sunken patio is both an opportunity and a necessity.

This intimate backyard has privacy from the Thuya present around the perimeter of the wall. These tall shrubs, planted closely, provide a perfect opportunity for privacy.

The difference in elevation between the driveway and the entrance provided an exciting visual opportunity here.

There is a spring present here. The wall placed on the 3/1 slopes keeps the hill in place. The redwood squares, beside the flagstone patio, have spaces between the wood, to allow water to pool and evaporate while allowing the squares to float, when the rain is heavy.

Again, the color red is important to the success of this project.

Iron rebar is painted and spaced every 3 feet with Japanese Maples fastened to the rebar to add greenery. This is a very inexpensive design solution.

This defines a passage between two very different parts of the yard.

The arbor provides interest to this home not present in any neighbors front yard.

Here the red vegetation provides the necessary color coordination with the landscape design.

This path is planted with manzanita that requires some shade.

Unlike concrete, pavers have the ability to be removed and reassembled, should they be unsettled by an earthquake.

This planter built with PTDF (Pressure Treated Douglas Fir) will last 40 years. Imbibed marks present, forcing the preservation into wood, were covered with spackle and paint.

This cute bridge covers a dry stream bed. To make the arc, bender boards were used with glue and screws.

Note the difference in the elevation of the roof.

Note the tall Thuya present proving privacy between this residence and their neighbor.

This intricate paving style is found in the logo of Alder Landscape Architecture.

This gate is designed with an attractive iron hardware painted black.

The beam required to mimic the curve of the rounded brick seat wall is made of laminated bender board.

This fountain is provided for a bachelor’s residential entrance, flooded with light at night.

Note the especially wide entrance providing a gracious look.

The double wide driveway provides more opportunity for design accent.